Skills

Ultrasonic Range Finder - XL-MaxSonar-WR1

Description: This is the new, weather resistant, field-hardened WR1 from Maxbotix. The XL series of this sensor features higher resolution, longer range, higher power output and better calibration when compared to the LV version.

The WR1 uses a robust PVC housing, is designed to meet IP67 water intrusion, and matches standard electrical ¾" PVC pipe fittings. The sensor provides very accurate readings from 0 to 765cm (0 to 25.1ft) with 1cm resolution. This sensor can be powered with anywhere between 3.3 and 5VDC.

Range information can be gathered through one of three methods - analog, serial, or PWM - all of which are active at the same time. The analog output will produce a voltage proportional to the measured distance, with a sensitivity of (Vcc/1024)V/cm. The serial interface is simple and formatted to RS-232, with voltages ranging from 0 to Vcc and terminal settings of 9600-8-N-1. Finally, the PWM pin outputs a pulse-width representation of the range with a scale factor of 58us/cm.

Note: The High-Resolution version of this sensor is now available so this one is being discontinued. We’re now selling them at a reduced price so get them while you can! The High-Resolution version can be found here.

Features:

3.3V to 5V supply with very low average current draw

All interfaces are active simultaneously

Serial, 0 to Vcc

9600 baud, 8-N-1

Analog, (Vcc/1024) / cm resolution

Pulse Width

High acoustic power output

Real-time auto calibration and noise rejection for every ranging cycle

Precise narrow beam

Continuously variable gain

Object detection includes zero range objects

Readings can occur up to every 100mS, (10-Hz rate)

Free run operation can continually measure and output range information

Customer Comments

Buyer beware that although this is advertised as “weather resistant, field-hardened” it does not work in temperatures below 40F (4.4C). Making it pretty much useless as an outdoor device unless you live in the Bahamas or Hawaii. The data sheet does not state the operating temp range.
Mine fails after spending 5-10 minutes outside. The analog pin drops to .01V and stays there until the unit is brought indoors and warms to room temperature.

Any easy way to connect it with my USB port so I can take the readings from a Virtual Com port? I also have a s19 USB-SERIAL interface connector from Acroname. What do you think, can it work ?
Thank you.

The best way to weatherproof this sensor is to extend the barrel with a piece of PVC pipe. You’ll sacrifice detection radius and introduce a slight measurement error, but save yourself from the impossible task of having to clean the device. Once dirt gets into it, it’s as good as dead. If contamination cannot be avoided, go with the cheaper EZ series. Those are easier to disassemble and clean.

I’ve bought this for a stationary sonar and the device is worth the money.
The beam is very narrow, so you’re less likely to get a ping from a flat angled surface, but more likely to get a precise reading from objects that do read. For a moving vehicle obstacle detection I’d recommend going with the EZ series carried by Sparkfun.
The sensor gets a much clearer readings with the 5V input, compared to 3.3V. If you put the ear to the device, you’ll hear the clicks get louder with higher voltage. Just don’t overdo it.
Also, in case you’re wondering, the mounting gear sold by Sparkfun for LV-WR1 does fit. The dimensions are the same.

Customer Reviews

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